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The United States has reached a solar capacity milestone capable of powering more than 50 million homes.

The United States now possesses enough operating solar capacity to generate clean electricity equivalent to the power used by more than 50 million homes, representing over one-third of all households nationwide. This milestone was achieved during the second quarter of 2026, following a period of significant growth in the solar industry. During the second quarter of 2026, the industry installed 11.4 gigawatts direct current (GWdc) of new capacity, a 45% increase year-over-year. Utility-scale solar accounted for the majority of this growth, adding 9.6 GWdc, which was a 61% increase from the previous year. This surge was driven by developers rushing to complete projects before a July 2026 safe harbor deadline for federal tax credits. Despite the administration's efforts to curb renewable energy and expand fossil fuel production, solar remains popular among supporters of the administration. States that voted for President Trump in 2024 accounted for 71% of all solar capacity installed in the first half of 2026. While residential solar is expected to experience a contraction in 2026 due to the expiration of a tax credit, utility-scale solar is projected to continue growing through 2031.

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